Pedorthic Newswire Issue No. 273

For the latest industry information on foot health and more.

August 13, 2008, Issue #273

DISCUSSION

Send your comments, questions, responses, articles or case studies to Pedorthic Newswire at editor@pedorthicnewswire.com. Your emails will be reviewed by pedorthists and the editors of Pedorthic Newswire, and selected submissions will be posted in an upcoming issue for feedback from other readers. The deadline for each issue is noon on the Monday of each week.

NEW QUESTIONS

Question to all DME providers: We are a DME provider and in the process of getting our facility accredited by BOC. We almost passed the inspection except for two items that we are expected to provide. They are:

1. Quality Standards-Performance Management plan
2. Quality Standards-Financial Management plan

If anyone has samples that I could look at or knows where to get it, this information would be greatly appreciated.

- Vicki, C. Ped.

Question: Any used amfit systems out there for sale?

- Josh

Question: I own a Pedorthic Facility in Alabama . I am in the process of trying to expand my business and I need to hire more Pedorthists. I don’t know how to go about finding a new Pedorthist. I would prefer to find a Pedorthist who currently does not live in Alabama just because we are a state with a very limited amount of Pedorthists. Can you please give me some ideas as to where and how I should go by doing this?

- PNW Reader

Editor's Note: Pedorthic Newswire offers a free classified ads service. I am also posting your question in case other readers have additional thoughts regarding how to find Pedorthists for a practice.

Question: I have a very frustrating situation and I'm trying to find out what, if anything, I can do about it. Earlier this year we received approval from CMS to bill Medicare for diabetic shoes and inserts. I have since found that this is only one of many Medicare insurers that we need to register with for reimbursement.

When I applied with Humana I was flatly rejected, not due to any shortcoming of ours but do to the fact that Humana has an "Exclusive agreement" with another supplier. When tax dollars are paying the premiums, I don't understand how they can lock out a properly credentialed and licensed provider from plying his trade. It is irritating in the extreme to turn patients away when I am perfectly capable and willing to supply the footwear and inserts at established reimbursement rates. I have several Humana patients that would rather deal with me due to the much larger selection of brands, styles, and sizes that we carry.

Is there anything that can be done? We have the patients bill of rights, how about a providers right to practice? Anyone else run into this problem?

- Russell Dotson, C. Ped., CFts

PREVIOUS QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS WITH RESPONSES

Question: Does anyone know where to get Barton's Wedges? Do any distributors have any left in stock? Apex/Aetrex used to manufacture them. They are the white crepe adhesive back Barton's wedges. Thank you!

- Stuart Pressman, C.O., C. Ped.

Response: Sorry to say I’m unaware of another resource for this highly useful pedorthic tool. But, if several hundred us reply to Pedorthic Newswire I’m sure Aetrex would see the monetary wisdom of continuing to produce Barton Wedges, even if the price was a little higher. If not, perhaps they can scour the dark recesses of their warehouse to find the hidden treasure they will closeout to you and me for a song. Of course we would have to lubricate our vocal cords with a pint first.

- Shane Hayes, C. Ped.

Response: You might try Pel supply. I've been getting them there for years.

Richard Young, C.Ped., Fayetteville, GA

Question: I keep seeing ABC and BOC Pedorthists. What's the difference, and what do I need to do to be both? Our days are so busy, it is hard to keep up with changes.

- Reggie S.

Response: Aligned with the BOC mission, pedorthic practitioners who earn the BOC Pedorthist designation underscore the BOC commitment to assure patients, physicians, professional organizations, the public-at-large, and government agencies and representatives, of their competence and professionalism. BOC Pedorthists provide quality patient care and professional services for which they are qualified within the BOC Pedorthist Scope of Practice. BOC Pedorthic Scope of Practice includes, pursuant to a written order/prescription to address a medical condition – evaluating, treatment planning, patient managing, measuring, designing, fabricating, assembling, fitting, adjusting or servicing, necessary to accomplish the application of a pedorthic device for the prevention or amelioration of painful and/or disabling conditions related to the lower extremities. Pedorthic devices/modalities include therapeutic shoes, shoe modifications made for therapeutic purposes, partial foot prostheses, foot orthoses and below the knee pedorthic modalities.

BOC encourages new and cross-over certification candidates to review our Scope of Practice and Detailed Content Outline defining the tasks involved and the domains of practice of a pedorthist practitioner, in addition to applicant materials located at http://www.bocusa.org/BOC.cfm?Page=BOC-Pedorthist. Or, feel free to contact us directly, toll-free at (877) 776-2200.

- Greg Safko, BOC President

Comment: Just received news that the Senate passed the bill HR6331 on July 9. This bill will exclude Podiatrists from DMEPOS accreditation requirements.

The memo reads the following:

On July 9, the Senate passed (buy a veto-proof margin) HR 6331 that encompasses many items including:

Exclusion of Podiatrists from DMEPOS accreditation requirements (big thanks to the APMA). Note that there appears to be one more step here to make this final and it rests with the CMS director to finally exclude Podiatrists. Our friends at the APMA feel this is imminent, however.

As ABC correctly states on their website:

"Licensed podiatrists commonly provide certain lower extremity orthoses, pedorthic devices and DME as an adjunct to their podiatric care. Similarly, pharmacies provide one or more levels of care, including off-the- shelf and pre-fabricated orthoses, post-mastectomy products, therapeutic shoes and/or limited or extensive DME. As both groups provide some level of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) they will need to meet CMS¢s mandatory accreditation requirements if they plan to receive payment from Medicare for certain services. Regardless of where the beneficiary receives care, the qualifications of the providers delivering patient care must meet ABC¢s stringent accreditation standards. As the preeminent, deemed authority for the accreditation of DMEPOS suppliers, ABC is poised to provide the oversight needed for those suppliers to participate under the newly regulated Medicare benefit categories." (ABC News & Events, 06/10/2008)

This would be an unbelievable double standard by CMS and an unfair advantage for Podiatrists. If they provide the same service as pedorthists and orthotists they should also be required to become accredited like pedorthists and orthotists.

Ether we all get accredited or we just drop this "mandatory" accreditation for once and all.

- Heinz Reichl, C. Ped., BOC Pedorthist

Response: I don't believe either ABC or BOC is in the legislative business, so if Congress wants to excuse podiatrists from accreditation, that's the way it is. Double standard or not (and it is).

While I can't speak for mastectomy products, wheelchairs, and the like, I do believe podiatrists are certainly "qualified" to fit and dispense diabetic appropriate shoes and inserts. That having been said, and I can only speak for the area I practice in, many podiatrists do not actually fit the shoes themselves but, instead, have a back office employee do it. Qualified? Who knows. Thankfully, there are a few podiatrists, there is one group in this area, who have the foresight to actually put a C.Ped. on staff expressly to take care of their diabetic patients. Kudos to them!

- Richard Young, C. Ped., Fayetteville, GA

Comment: Just read that SADMERC has okayed one of the Croc clogs to be used as a Medicare TSD shoe. I feel like the guy that fell asleep under the tree and woke up years later to a changed world. Am I mistaken in thinking that the legislation passed by Congress for the therapeutic shoes for diabetes benefit had specifications that the footwear have closures, have uppers made of leather or equivalent material, and be available in a minimum of three widths for that style from the manufacturer. Have removable footbeds. Be available in half sizes. Or did the rules change while I was napping under the tree?

Does the Croc style that SADMERC reviewed and okayed for use for the TSD program meet any of these specifications?

Also, if a TSD supplier is selling self pay customers the Crocs Cloud for $39.95 (suggested retail) and then files a claim for the full fee schedule amount of $127.16, will not Medicare see that as somewhat abusive of Medicare? Or if the supplier files a Croc claim for an amount somewhere between their MSRP and the Medicare fee for A500 to try to avoid Medicare abuse (overcharging federal program), Medicare will start to average down the supplier's reimbursement for A5500 claims for that Croc claim amount and the amount submitted for real TSD shoes so that the supplier will not receive 80% of the fee schedule at some point in the future when real TSD footwear is dispensed. Either scenario is somewhat grim for the supplier that would use Crocs for the TSD program.

Did someone at SADMERC fall asleep too?

- John Mishasek, BOC Pedorthist, C. Ped.

Response to Above Question and Comment: As per my previous posting when pedorthists go through four years of post college medical training and then a multi year residency we can then talk about the "double standard" you refer to. From the podiatrist's point of view we could similarly claim a similar double standard. That is, we go through many years of post college medical training yet receive the same payments for procedures performed by others who have not even received a college degree (and in the majority of states doesn't even require licensure). By the way why are you only picking on podiatrists, do you realize that MD's DO's and Optometrists are also exempt? Is it because you feel threatened only by podiatrists and are afraid to take on our allopathic medical partners?

As for Mr. Mishaseck's comments: To some degree I agree with him. Someone at SADMERC did in fact fall asleep at the wheel if Clogs can be considered covered under the TSB. I believe that a clog type shoe for limited use in the home may be satisfactory for limited ambulation and as a "comfort" shoe but not a therapeutic shoe. Comfort items should not become the burden to the taxpayer. Certainly a shower chair or waterproof cast protector are for more medically necesary than a Croc style clog shoe.

It certainly seems that these shoes do not meet the specifications of the shoes under the TSB for diabetes. In my previous communications w/those at SADMERC I was informed that certain shoes may meet a specific HCPCS code definition but still fall short of the standards under the TSB policy. I hope this is one of those situations. Unfortunately with the transition of SADMERC to another carrier this will likely take some time to resolve.

- Dr. Paul Kesselman

PREVIOUS QUESTION WITHOUT RESPONSE

Question: This announcement recently came out:

Medicare Bill Includes E-prescribing Bonus

Eligible physicians can expect some financial relief courtesy of the federal government simply by adding a jolt of modern technology to their practice. Under a measure approved by the Senate, doctors who are paid by Medicare would become eligible for bonus payments just for filing prescriptions electronically rather than writing them out by hand. The e-prescribing requirement, which also covers a reporting initiative, is part of a broader Medicare bill that first cleared the House in June.

The bill allows for a stepped-down system of bonus payments, running from 2009 through 2013. At the outset, doctors would be eligible for a 2% bump in reimbursement dollars for e-prescribing, which would gradually decrease over time as the technology becomes more common and less expensive. Conversely, physicians who don’t e-prescribe would start to see a reduction in pay starting in 2012. The Senate measure also requires the Government Accountability Office to study the effectiveness of e-prescribing, culminating in a comprehensive report by late 2012.

Source: Matthew DoBias, Modern Healthcare [7/10/08]

As a pedorthist who fills prescriptions it would be a tremendous help to receive E-prescriptions. Often the patient forgets to bring it or tell us that she has a prescription. Many prescriptions are verbal and subject to patient interpretation and memory. I know that you are not thinking about pedorthic prescriptions in the same way as others: I wish you would.

Does anyone currently send or receive prescriptions this way and what system do they use?

- Robert S. Schwartz, C. Ped.

SPONSOR NEWS

To view the Aetrex segment of The Works, please click here

AETREX iSTEP WEBINARS

For further information, please contact Dan Bacher at dbacher@aetrex.com

HEALTH AND INDUSTRY NEWS

The Collections at WSA lights up the luxury market in Las Vegas

The Collections at WSA, the premier destination for luxury footwear, handbags and accessories, once again played host to a successful show held at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. Displayed in the property’s exclusive suites, the event presented buyers, retailers and stylists with an overall look at the luxury marketplace, featuring a mixture of high-end designers and exhibitors in one convenient location. In addition to footwear designers and brands, The Collections at WSA featured more handbag and jewelry designers than ever, and welcomed many new exhibitors to the show.

“The Collections at WSA has truly solidified itself as a go-to destination for exciting designer brands,” said Leslie Gallin, director, The Collections at WSA. “Despite the economic downturn, the high-end market is robust and the positioning of the show continues to evolve in its incredible assortment of offerings and remains the number one showcase of trends, up-and-coming designers, and top buying power in the market.” Full Text

Source: fibre2fashion.com

Foot Care Expert Says People 45+ May Forego Health Benefits of Swimming in Summer Because of Unattractive Feet

Carol J. Buck, M.I.A., CEO of Xenna Corporation, which distributes foot care products, says, "Summer is an excellent time for men and women of all ages to take advantage of the many health benefits of swimming. Unfortunately, many are embarrassed by the appearance of their dry heels or discolored toenails, causing them to avoid activities such as swimming, water aerobics or even experience the cooling freedom of wearing sandals or flip-flops."

The benefits of swimming for anti-aging are well documented: According to a study done at Indiana University, regular, moderately intensive swimming can substantially delay the decline of such age markers as blood pressure, muscle mass, blood chemistry and pulmonary function. Tests performed on U.S. Masters swimmers found that regular, moderately intense swimming postponed the aging process, not only for years, but for decades. Full Text

Source: 24-7PressRelease

DIABETES

First online Diabetic Foot Care forum launched in India

M V Hospital for Diabetes & Diabetes Research Centre, launched a multi-level awareness campaign, titled “Foot care for people with diabetes” at the city today. The campaign was inaugurated with an interactive public discussion forum by Dr. T. P. Kalaniti, M.D, Director of Medical Education, Tamil Nadu at Chennai today. World renowned Podiatrist, Dr. Ali Foster, Honorary Consultant at Kings College, NHS London, shared insights on prevention of foot complications at the public interactive session attended by over 300 people. Full Text

Source: Chennai Online

New Drug Hoping To Heal Diabetic Foot Ulcers

A top Boston hospital is testing a new treatment for diabetic foot ulcers. It's a complication of diabetes that can lead to amputation. News Center 5's Liz Brunner reported Tuesday how the treatment may save limbs and lives.

For Walter Perry, walking down a hospital hallway is a challenge. "My feet seem to get tired on me," Perry said. Perry has had type-2 diabetes for 15 years, but it is his foot ulcers that have led to six surgeries.

"I've lost the middle toe on both feet and partial bones on my big toe," he said.

Diabetics are at an increased risk of developing foot problems. When patients like Perry lose feeling in their feet, they can develop ulcers that can get infected and lead to amputation. Full Story

Source: TheBostonChannel.com

SPORTS AND FITNESS

The Shoe Olympics

by Mike Esterl and Nicholas Casey

Engineers have been burning the midnight oil designing vast infrastructure, security and crowd control for Beijing's Olympic Games. Not to mention a better table-tennis shoe.

On a converted U.S. Army base in rural Herzogenaurach, Germany, six designers at Adidas have spent the past several years tinkering with specialized footwear for badminton, fencing and two dozen other sports ahead of the games. Full Text

Source: Wall Street Journal

BECOMING A CERTIFIED PEDORTHIST

Join A Growing Service Profession: Pedorthics

Pedorthics is a professional field covering the design, manufacture, modification and/or fit of footwear. Pedorthics encompasses shoes, orthoses and foot devices that prevent or alleviate foot problems caused by disease, overuse, injury or congenital defect. Certified Pedorthists work with patients and their footwear to conform to a doctor's footwear prescription as part of the patient's treatment

To become a certified pedorthist, you must take a pre-determined number of course hours in pedorthics and pass a certifying examination overseen by either The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics® or Board for Orthotists/Prosthetists Certification, Int’l. Both the ABC and BOC are independent certification bodies that set standards for the profession and are recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

More information, including FAQ's

The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics information on the step-by-step process of becoming a pedorthist

Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification

For information on the Canadian certifying organization:
The Pedorthic Association of Canada

UPCOMING COURSES AND EVENTS

BECOME A CERTIFIED PEDORTHIST

COURSES

The Robert M. Palmer M.D.,Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Click here to view a detailed calendar including dates and locations, information and pricing.

The Pedorthic Footwear Foundation has several scholarships and grants for 2007. Visit http://www.pedorthics.org/ and then click on the "Foundation" tab for more information.

Traveling Courses To Your Area sponsored by The Robert M. Palmer, M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics, Inc. a not-for-profit pedorthic school. Please contact us to discuss your needs at phone: 765-557-7216. Email: pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or visit our Web site at: http://www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org/.

CFS Allied Health Education: Pedorthic Certification: Exam Review
This review is focused on supplying the student with the skills and knowledge needed to pass the ABC Certified Pedorthic exam by presenting exam-like questions, exploring possible answers, and discussing rationales for correct and incorrect answers. Contact CFS Allied Health Education at (918) 266-3678 or visit http://www.learnpedorthics.com/ for more information.

*ABC and The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics are registered trademarks of the The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc., which is not affiliated with CFS Allied Health Education and does not endorse this review.

Oklahoma State University has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical oriented individual. Your next course option is to begin by enrolling in our Level 1 Online Program! Then you are required to attend a Level Two: Hands-On program. Once you have successfully completed these courses, you may enroll in our Level 3 Online Program! Contact Information: Jerry Wilson 918-293-5330 or Andrea Autaubo 918-293-5330 or visit our website http://www.osu-okmulgee.edu/ Click here for course listings.

For more information on the Scholl College pedorthic pre-certification course: Contact the Special Programs Office at 847-578-8410, email Ellie.Wydeven@rosalindfranklin.edu or click on www.rosalindfranklin.edu/scpm/ce/.

The National Shoe Retailers Association is pleased to bring training and CEs directly to you, without the additional cost of travel, food, lodging, registration fees or lost work time. Our affordable WISER Sales Training DVD makes in-house training easy and there’s now an online exam for Continuing Education credits from ABC and BOC.

WISER Sales Training provides quality training for new sales associates and re-motivates experienced sales staff. The DVD format makes it easy for employees to train at times convenient for them, and for employers to offer quality training without hiring outside trainers or taking the most experienced staff off the sales floor. ABC’s Category 1 CEUs for WISER Sales Training total 21.75 credits (2.5 scientific, 19.25 business), good through year 2010. BOC’s credit total is 20.34 (6.42 CPE Category 1, 13.92 Category 2).

Pricing for the program is as follows:

DVD, workbook and guide for trainers Members: $295 (Non-Members $395)

Additional Handbooks: $10 each

Online Test Members: $100 (Non-Members: $200)

For more information or to order, click http://www.nsra.org/wiser_intro.php?ad=pn

or call or email Kim Surasky at 1-800-673-8446, ext. 318, kims@nsra.org.

2008 FOOT SOLUTIONS C. Ped. TRAINING COURSE INFORMATION Foot Solutions is an accredited facility that hold classes three times per year. The company's course will offers the certificate needed in all three levels to sit for the C.Ped Exam. The facility is located at2359 Windy Hill Road, Suite 400, Marietta, GA 30067
July 25: 1-day cram session
October 31: 1-day cram session
For application and fee information, contact:

Tracy Strickland 1-866-338-2597 EXT: 206 tstrickland@footsolutions.com

Betty Hubauer 1-866-338-2597 EXT: 201 betty@footsolutions.com

Dr. William Faddock 1-866-338-2597 EXT: 209 bfaddock@footsolutions.com

ENESLOW PEDORTHIC INSTITUTE 1-on-1 or Group Tutoring Available; Eneslow Training & Tutoring Program, Individual and Small Group Program

WHO SHOULD COME:
Those who wish to improve their pedorthic, sales, retailing, biomechanics and business skills.
Those who need a refresher course; prepare for the Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes or the
Pedorthic Pre-Certification Course and Exam.

SUBJECTS: PEDORTHICS - SALES -RETAIL MANAGEMENT
Pedorthic Assessment - Pedorthic Shoe Fitting - Pedorthic Solutions Footwear - Foot Orthotics
Foot Products - Ready-made - Custom Shoe Constructions and Designs
Shoe Modifications - Casting and Evaluation Techniques for Custom Shoes & Orthotics - Business and Practice Management Finance & Administration
Forecasting & Budgeting - Buying & Inventory Control Marketing & Advertising Professional Responsibility - Safety - Human Resources Biomechanics Pediatrics
Pathology of Diseases and Malalignments

HANDS-ON 1-ON-1 INSTRUCTION
$150/ hour for individual training

GROUP TRAINING
$125/hour per person for two or more participants in the same program at the same time
$100/hour per person for five or more participants in the same program at the same time

Fee: Two hour minimum

HANDS-ON 1-ON-1 TRAINING WITH ROBERT S. SCHWARTZ, CPED, OR DR. JUSTIN WERNICK, DPM, CPED
$250/hour for individual training &
$200/hour per person for group training
Added Value: An insider’s look into the retail, pedorthic, sales, store operations, and business management of Eneslow.
ABC and BOC points may be applied for.

ENESLOW PEDORTHIC INSTITUTE, 470 Park Avenue South at 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016. Call for more info (212) 477-2300 (Ask for Sarah Goldberg, CPED) (212) 353-2876 Fax

email: epi@eneslow.com or visit http://eneslow.com/epi

OCTOBER 2008

Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science will offer their 3-level competency based training course for future pedorthists from October 14-30, 2008 for the classroom session. The pre-course online session is available prior and must be completed by October 6, 2008. The Pre-Certification Course in Pedorthics has been approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Pedorthic Education (CAPE). Podiatric Physicians and other medical professionals may be considered for advanced placement based on the podiatric/medical education and year of graduation.

FEBRUARY 2009

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute, 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, Phone: 212-477-2300. EPI Pre-Certification Course for Podiatrists and other qualified healthcare professionals: February 16th to 21st 2009.

EPI Pre-Certification course for Podiatrists and other qualified healthcare professionals is a one week course to prepare qualified professionals to become a Board Certified Pedorthist and enhance their practices. Pedorthic treatment has proven to provide incremental patient benefits, particularly when added to other treatment protocols. The awarding of an ABC/BOC pedorthic certification provides an appropriate and meaningful recognition of professional competence. Contact Sarah Goldberg at (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or sarah@eneslow.com. Cost $1,995.

Special Note: Aetrex is offering each Aetrex Customer a special $1,000 savings on Aetrex purchases of $2,000 for each Podiatrist or other qualified healthcare professional who attends the Eneslow Pedorthic Institute Pedorthic Pre-certification Course for Podiatrists and other qualified healthcare professionals. Enroll Now!

MAY 2009

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute, 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, Phone: 212-477-2300. EPI Pre-Certification Course: May 4th to 19th 2009.

EPI Pre-Certification course is a two and a half week all inclusive course to prepare individuals to become a Board Certified Pedorthist. The EPI course is also designed to help health care professionals enhance their practices (ATC, CO, CPO, DC, DPM, MD, PT). Pedorthic treatment has proven to provide incremental patient benefits, particularly when added to other treatment protocols. The awarding of an ABC/BOC pedorthic certification provides an appropriate and meaningful recognition of professional competence. Contact Sarah Goldberg at (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or sarah@eneslow.com. Cost $3,995.

Special Note: Aetrex is offering each Aetrex Customer a special $2,000 savings on Aetrex purchases of $4,000 for each person who attends the Eneslow Pedorthic Institute Pedorthic Pre-certification Course. Enroll Now!

BECOME A THERAPEUTIC SHOE FITTER

For additional information on the Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course, please contact the Aetrex Marketing Department at: marketing@aetrex.com.

AUGUST 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: August 21 (Raleigh, NC), $195.

SEPTEMBER 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: September 5 (Greenwood Village, CO), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: September 14 (Pasadena, CA ), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: September 16 (Portland, OR), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: September 24 (Manchester, NH), $195.

OCTOBER 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: October 14 (Louisville, KY), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: October 21(Rochester, NY), $195.

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: October 27 (Atlanta, GA), $195.

DECEMBER 2008

Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course: December 5 (Orlando, FL), $195.

For additional information on the Aetrex Worldwide Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Course, please contact the Aetrex marketing department at (800) 526-2739 or marketing@aetrex.com.

FEBRUARY 2009

Certified Shoe Fitter Course - February 16th to 17th 2009: Eneslow Pedorthic Institute (EPI), New York, NY, USA, February 16th to 17th, 2009

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute offers the Certified Shoe Fitter Course, a comprehensive two day course leading to ABC Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes (abcop.org) or BOC Footwear Specialist BOCFS (bocusa.org) It is for individuals who fit non-custom therapeutic shoes and non-custom diabetic multi-density inserts. With a greater need for competent, reliable, and ethical patient care as it pertains to those who live with diabetes and the symptoms attributed to the disease, it is necessary to hold those responsible to a higher standard. The ABC fitter of therapeutic shoe certification and the BOC Footwear Specialist BOCFS is awarded as an attestation of competency for the public, those who require orthotic/prosthetic services as a result of diabetes, and those in other health professions. Applicants for certification are required to complete established educational and experiential requirements. Eneslow Pedorthic Institute 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, USA. Cost $395. For more information go to www.eneslow.com/epi or Contact Sarah Goldberg at (212) 477-2300 ext 211 or sarah@eneslow.com

ADDITIONAL COURSES

Oklahoma State University is offering various courses ranging from instruction in shoe fitting to biomechanics and pathomechanics of the foot. To view a complete listing of 2007 courses and dates, please click here.

CFS Allied Health Education is pleased to announce their new ABC Approved Therapeutic Shoe Educational Course. An ABC certified fitter of Therapeutic shoes is an individual trained and qualified in the provision of non-custom therapeutic shoes and non-custom diabetic multi-density inserts. This two-day course fulfills the educational requirements needed to apply for the ABC Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes credential. To learn more, please visit CFS Allied Health Education's website at http://www.learnpedorthics.com/ for course dates or call (918) 266-3678.

ENESLOW PEDORTHIC INSTITUTE 1-on-1 or Group Tutoring Available; Eneslow Training & Tutoring Program, Individual and Small Group Program

ENESLOW PEDORTHIC INSTITUTE, 470 Park Avenue South at 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016

Call for more info (212) 477-2300 (Ask for Sarah Goldberg, CPED) (212) 353-2876 Fax

email: epi@eneslow.com or visit http://eneslow.com/epi

INTERNSHIPS

Internship Course with The Robert M. Palmer, M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics:
Pedorthic Clinical or Manufacturing Internships Available. Daily, Weekly or Extended Internship Courses Available. Experience clinical settings in Orthopaedic, Podiatric, Chiropractic and Physical Therapy Clinics as well as experience in a BAPFOL approved functional foot orthosis laboratory. We specialize in diabetic wound care as well as pediatric and adult biomechanics. Your internship hours can earn you an Associates Degree In Pedorthic Biomechanics or be used as continuing medical education hours. Please contact Pam Haig at 765-557-7216 or pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

Comfort Shoe Specialists, state of the art retail pedorthic facility, offers internships for on the job training requirements in beautiful St. Louis. Room is available as an option. Call Edith James, Certified Pedorthist, at 314-822-3300 -- or email Edith@ComfortShoe.com

CLASSIFIEDS

Submit ads to: editor@pedorthicnewswire.com

Seeking to Hire: Aetrex Worldwide, Inc. is a vertically integrated footwear, foot health and technology company whose mission is "to bring to market footwear and footcare products that enable you to live life your way, pursuing your favorite activities, avoiding unnecessary setbacks and overcoming challenges whenever possible."

Aetrex manufactures casual/comfort, athletic and diabetic footwear. The company is also a leading manufacturer of over-the-counter orthotics and diabetic inserts. In addition Aetrex is the leading provider of foot scanning technology to the retail market place. Aetrex sells its products through broad channels of distribution including, retail shoe, sporting goods, golf, pedorthic, DME, podiatry, O&P and others. Check http://www.aetrex.com/ and http://www.foot.com/ for additional information.

"Service/Tech Reps-NY Metro Territory"
Aetrex Worldwide, Inc. is seeking dynamic individuals to work as a service/tech rep for the NY Metro territory. The position requires some retail/wholesale shoe experience with knowledge of, and the ability to resolve computer hardware/software issues. We offer salary, bonus and a complete benefits package. E-mail resumes to leslie@aetrex.com or fax (201) 833-0846. No calls please.

Seeking to Hire: If you’re an ambitious and patient-centered CPED who is a team player and a good communicator, consider offering quality patient care with us in beautiful Birmingham, Alabama, a city with great golf courses, arts, history and social life. The successful candidate must have strong clinical and marketing skills and be able to communicate easily with both patients and referring physicians. Our facility has a large physician-referring base both in and out-of-state. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package that includes continuing education opportunities and relocation expenses. Two-to-three years experience required. Please send us your resume to: ALPedorthics@gmail.com 8/13

Seeking to Hire: Expanding Orthotic Facility has CPed/ Pedorthic Tech Position Available

A well-established New York City Orthotic Lab with a growing practice has an immediate opening for an experienced, certified Pedorthist. Looking for a mature, self motivated person with fabrication skill. Including working with negative and positive cast, working with saws, grinders and vacuum molding of various materials. Experience fitting and fabricating orthotic devices is a plus, but will train qualified candidates. Compensation: Health Insurance, 2 week paid vacation, paid holidays, profit sharing, Transit checks. Salary negotiable (depends on experience), Compensation for continual Education. Please email resumes to drbalance@msn.com 8/6

Pedorthic Facility Closing, All inventory/equipment/fixtures for Sale Below Cost! - Inventory includes: Aetrex, Finn, Saucony, MBT, Drew, PW Minor, Pedors, Ana-Tech, Thorlo's, Lyncos, etc. Equipment available includes: Amfit, worktable, shoe stretchers, shoe racks, fitting stools, etc. Fixtures include: checkout desk, shoe display tables, chairs, benches, etc. Hurry up all items going fast, we will ship anywhere! Please contact Raul Alfonso for list of items at rmalfo@bellsouth.net 7/23

Seeking to Hire: Shoe Fitting Specialist, Per Diem openings in New York City and Long Island Excellent way to supplement your income. Work independently on your on schedule. Must be a CPED or other recognized shoe fitting credentials. In Home shoe fittings; flexible schedules and hours. GenCare Systems Inc. is a rapidly expanding healthcare company providing Therapeutic Shoes, Diabetes Supplies and related Durable Medical Equipment. Please email or fax your resume, attention. Fitting Specialist Email steve@gencaresystems.com ; Fax: 631-544-4448. 7/16

Seeking to Hire: Expanding Pedorthic Services Department within retail shoe company in
Milwaukee, WI has an opening for a C.Ped. with a strong Pedorthic fabrication background, as well as patient skills. Team player, good communicator and attention to detail necessary. We offer an established patient and clinic base and a competitive compensation package. e-mail resume to info@stansfootwear.com 7/16

Business For Sale – All inclusive: The Foot Support Center in Allentown PA, Business, Real Estate, Shoe Repair Equipment, Business Equipment & Inventory. Listed on the Lehigh Valley MLS @ www.lvarmls.com MLS # 302587. Located at 120 E. Emmaus Avenue near I-78, Rt. 309 and Rt. 145, there is a high volume of traffic, an ever growing clientele and a very loyal following of current clients/patients. Unique all-inclusive one-stop facility – reason for sale is based on health/illness. Buy now. Call Ben Baker @ 610 -392-5495. 6/11

Seeking to Hire: Certified Pedorthist -- Growing private practice located on I-5 corridor in Western Washington. We are looking for a self motivated person who enjoys the challenge of building and maintaining an existing business. We offer our own in-house central fabrication department. We offer competitive salary, benefits, continuing education allowance. People management skills a must. Please call Althea Schlumpf, C. Ped. (425-345-9745), or email resume and questions to althea@geminico.com. 5/21

Seeking to Hire: Grand opening of Men's and Women's comfort show store in South Ocean County, N.J. . Looking for certified pedorthist with retail sales experience. Salary commensurate with experience, benefits available. Fax resume to 732-279-1987 or e-mail plevy317@comcast.net. 5/21

Classifieds will run for 90 days unless we are informed that the position has been filled. Thank you!

UPCOMING COURSES

Submit course listings to: editor@pedorthicnewswire.com

2008 COURSES AND EVENTS

MONTHLY

Riecken's Orthotic Labs - 800-331-8040; SAFIO Class, Second Friday of every month, at 5115 Oak Grove Rd., Evansville, IN. Four casting stands provided, limited to 8 students. Contact Darlene at the above number for more information.

SEPTEMBER 2008

American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (AOPA) National Assembly. We're taking the National Assembly to New Heights! Don't miss the county's oldest & largest meeting for the orthotic, prosthetic & pedorthic profession, Sept. 10-14 at The Hyatt Regency Chicago. Earn over 40 CE credits at this five day event. Visit www.AOPAnet.org or contact Tina Moran at tmoran@aopanet.org for more info.

The Robert M. Palmer M.D.,Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Dates: Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: Sept 13 - 22 - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216 or visit our Web site at: www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

OCTOBER 2008

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Dates: Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: October 11 - 20 - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216 or visit our Web site at: www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science: Pre-Certification Course in Pedorthics - will be held October 14-30, 2008. For more information on the Scholl College pedorthic pre-certification course, contact the Special Programs Office at 847-578-8410, email Ellie.Wydeven@rosalindfranklin.edu or click on www.rosalindfranklin.edu for a Scholl College Special Programs listing.

NOVEMBER 2008

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Dates: Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: November 15 - 24th - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216 or visit our Web site at: www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

DECEMBER 2008

AOPAversity- Mastering Medicare: Advanced Coding and Billing Techniques. December 1-2, Orlando, Fla. Contact Erin Kennedy at (571) 431-0834 or e-mail ekennedy@AOPAnet.org for more information.

The Robert M. Palmer M.D., Institute Of Biomechanics "A Not-For-Profit School" has uniquely designed courses to provide pedorthic pre-certification education for the retail, clinical or biomechanical knowledge seeking pedorthist. Course dates for Levels 1-3 in a variety of locations in the United States, Hong Kong, Mainland China and Korea are available. Dates: Level 1 & 3 performed online - Level 2 Dates: December 6 - 15 - Elwood, Indiana - Scholarships Available - Please contact pam@pedorthicbiomechanics.org or 765-557-7216 or visit our Web site at: www.pedorthicbiomechanics.org.

2009 COURSES AND EVENTS

FEBRUARY 2009

Certified Shoe Fitter Course - February 16th to 17th 2009: Eneslow Pedorthic Institute (EPI), New York, NY, USA, February 16th to 17th, 2009

MAY 2009

Eneslow Pedorthic Institute, 470 Park Avenue South @ 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016-6819, Phone: 212-477-2300. EPI Pre-Certification Course: May 4th to 19th 2009.

STAFF

Editor: Faye Rapoport DesPres, M.S.

ADVISORY BOARD

Robert Schwartz, C. Ped. John Mishasek, BOC Pedorthist, C. Ped.

Stephen F. Albert, D.P.M., C. Ped. Jerome S. Klein, C.O., C. Ped.

Edith James, C. Ped. Erick Janisse, C. Ped.

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